Bangli Tourism Info
Bangli regency is one of regencies in the Bali province that doesn't have sea area, but Bangli regency has the number of the human resources of the power that is to say, among other things the panorama of the beauty of the Mount Batur and the Batur lake that located in Subdistrict Kintamani.....





Buleleng Tourism Info
The regency of Buleleng consists of 9 Subdistrict that covers 146 administrative village and traditional village 163 with width near 1.365.88 kilometers. The distance between Buleleng Regency and the Denpasar is about 88 km (53 miles).




Gianyar Tourism Info
The regency of Gianyar like the famous one of the artistic and high culture, has interesting areas because the areas of a tourism, have the opinion of the.




Karangasem Tourism Info
The regency of Karangasem is one of the nine regency in Bali, situated in the eastern part of Bali. The distance between Karangasem Regency and the International Airport located in Denpasar is about 88 km (53 miles).



Tabanan Tourism Info
Tabanan regency is one of 8 districts/1 city which have agriculture characteristic, with width of the area about 893.33 km² (19.9% from width of Bali island). Administratively Tabanan regency divided into 8 subdistricts, 10.



Jembrana Tourism Info
The bamboo instruments have become special characteristics of Jembrana regency, which is located in the west side of Bali Island.






Badung Tourism Info
The Regency of Badung, which is located between 08 degrees south latitude and 115 degrees east longitude, is shaped liked a “kriss”. The Regency, which has only 418.52 square kilometers of land, is divided into sixth districts (kecamatan), 40 administrative villages (desa dinas and kelurahan), and as many as 117 traditional villages (desa adat).




Denpasar Tourism Info
Capital of Bali propinsi (province), south central Bali, Indonesia, 40 miles (70 km) south of Singaraja. The largest city on the island of Bali, it is also the capital of the Badung kabupaten (regency).





Aneka Info & Tips - Aneka tips kecantikan & Kesehatan
Disini akan diulas mengenai beberapa tips kesehatan yang akan sangat membatu anda dalam mengatasi masalah yang berkaitan dengan kesehatan diri dan ketahan serta manfaat dari beberapa jenis tanaman yang tersedia di alam. semoga apa yang saya sajikan dapat bermanfaat bigi para pembaca dan semua kalangan tentang.




Gadis remaja Seksi - Gadis Indonesia dan Sex Education

Berisi tetang informasi seputar wanita yang berkaitan dengan sek education, astrologi, fashion, wanita dan kehamilan, life style, news & article dan masih banyak info yang menarik untuk di baca..
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Pattaya



In fact only 40 years ago Pattaya as we know it today, didn't even exist. On the stretch of coast between Sriracha and Sattahip, there were only a small number of fishing villages and in Pattaya bay itself, there were just a few fishing families who had settled here because of the calm waters and the safety of the bay, protected headlands to the North and South and by mountains behind. Their nearest neighbors lived just around the headland to the north, where, in the old days salt used to be produced (Naa-Klua = salt fields) but where there were now mainly fishing families. People traveled about by foot or by bullock carts because, except of the main road from Bangkok to Sattahip, only a few dirt roads and tracks existed.

Nevertheless, the bay and nearby islands provided good, safe fishing and more and more families came here to settle down, Gradually a village developed. At first was know as Tupphraya the general name for the area which dated back to the time when Pharaya Taksin (Duke Taksin) camped near here with the followers he had gathered to help free Thailand from the Burmese (Tupphraya - the Pharaya' - army)

As the village grew, the villagers wanted to give it a separate identity, so they adopted the name of Pattaya,which was the name they used for the strong winds which came from the South West at the beginning of every rainy season.
The pace of life was slow and it seemed as if Pattaya would remain an out-of-the-way place forever. Even up to 30 years ago there were only a few buses serving the 100 or more families who lived here and visitors from elsewhere were few and far between. But things were destined to change and as usual, it was a war (the Vietnam War) which changed them. The U.S.A. sent soldiers to build the air base at U Tapao and many of these took to spending their leisure time and money in Pattaya.

The beaches were clean in those days and the sea breezes made it pleasant and cool. People in the surrounding areas were quick to spot the business opportunities and bars guesthouses begun to spring up. The fisher - folk probably resented this intrusion, but it provided a good market for their catches and they soon got on the bandwagon by offering fishing trips to Koh Larn for about 50 Baht per head. Gradually, visitors from Bangkok also begun to use the resort at weekends, although the trip was a tiring 3 to 4 hours on the two-lane road.

Later the US Military based in Thailand begun to use Pattaya for rest and recreation (R&R) and bigger hotels and entertainment places (including the oldest profession of them all) were built to cater for them. Thus the' 60s and' 70s saw the most rapid change and development. In 1964 in view of its new importance, Pattata was raised to the status of a village and in 1979, elevated to that of a Teasban Nakhon (Municipality), responsible now for its own administration.

Today Pattaya is Thailand's premier beach resort and attracts annually more than a million tourists from all over the world. Pattaya provides high standard hotels, restaurants, sports, entertainment and shopping facilities. The resort is Thailand's most important diving center and the east coast is also a paradise for golfers.

Pattaya resort is located on the eastern coastline of Thailand's exotic Gulf of Siam and is approximately 140 km southeast of the capital city of Bangkok and about 160 Km from Bangkok International Airport. Which four parts: Central Pattaya, North Pattaya, South Pattaya and Jomtien Beach.



Central Pattaya

Pataya Klang, or Central Pattaya, is a little funkier than the Northern district. The hotels are not so grand, the restaurants smaller, and here you will find the beginning of Pattaya's bar-beers, or open-air bars. There are plenty of tailor shops, and some go-go bars. Pattaya police station, and the Immigration Office are here. Two main shopping malls, the Royal Garden Plaza and Mike's Place, are both in Central Pattaya. In addition to the action along Beach Road, many of the sois are very lively: Soi Post Office, and Soi Pattayaland 1, 2 and 3 in particular. There is a Tourist Police office on Beach Road near the junction with South Pattaya's Walking Street. The sois will all take you through to Second Road, where there are more bars and restaurants, and a couple of dive shops. There are many small hotels and guesthouses here, offering good value accommodation and no-frills Western and Thai dining.



North Pattaya / Naklua

Naklua means "salt fields", after the main occupation of the area before the rise of tourism and industry. There is still the air of an ancient village to Naklua today, for here you will see old wooden houses and narrow streets, traditional noodle shops and working fishing boats. The old houses over the creek are especially picturesque, and a walk through the streets will reveal plenty of little shops selling handicrafts and domestic goods. The Dolphin Roundabout and the beginning of Beach Road mark the junction with North Pattaya, and the surroundings change dramatically. This is the classy end of the resort, with upmarket hotel and restaurants facing out over the beach. Here too you can begin a pleasant walk along the bayfront, for a recently built promenade will take you along the shore under the palm trees right up to through to the back part of Pattaya, known as Second Road. There are more major hotels here, along with shopping areas, bars, clubs, and a Tourist Police office.

South Pattaya

South Pattaya Road curves sharply off from Beach Road, taking the traffic away from this busy district which is now known as Walking Street. A relatively recent development, this pedestrians only zone is welcome relief, allowing visitors to browse amongst the endless little shops offering fast tailoring services, sports goods, jewelry and souvenirs. Here too the bars are almost endless, as are the big seafood restaurants, several of them built out over the ocean and offering pleasant surroundings to enjoy you meal. South Pattaya tends to be older, brasher and busier than the remainder of the city. You can walk uninterrupted all the way through to the Siam Bayshore Hotel and Arthachinda Road, which effectively marks the boundary of South Pattaya. Take any of the sois, no matter how tiny they may seem, to make you way through to Pratamnak Road, the back part of Pattaya which links up with Second Road.

Around Jomtien Beach

As is so often the case in Thailand, you will see several different spellings of "Jomtien". This district, with its 6km beach, is divided off form the rest of Pattaya by the hill which rises to the back of South Pattaya. Drive over the hill, past the big Buddha and the Royal Cliff Hotel, and down into the relatively quiet Jomtien. The beach is popular with windsurfs and water sports enthusiasts, largely because the area enjoys brisk and fresh breezes sweeping inland from the Thai Gulf, and because the seas are less congested with boats than in Pattaya Bay. This is also the place to relax for a suntan, of go for long early morning or sunset walks along the oceanfront. There is little in the way of shopping or beer - bars at Jomtien, which is essentially a residential area with beachside hotels, bungalow complexes, condominiums and restaurants. Jomtien has its own very distinctive gay beach, accessed by turning right at the bottom of the hill; for all other attractions, turn left.

By Car

Departure from the Bangkok's Don Muang Airport to Pattaya daily (by direct expressway) at 09:00, 12:00, and 19:00. Duration +/- 2.5 hrs. Reservation: Thai limousine service, Thai Airways, arrival lounge, Bangkok Airport (Don Muang).

Fare : 280 baht.
Tel. 02- 535-2801, 02-535-2803. (Bangkok)
Tel. 038-423140-1(Pattaya)

(individual taxis are available for the same journey and cost from ?1500 to 2000 baht, one way)

By Bus

By 1st Class Air Conditioned Bus (Duration 2 1/2 hrs.)
Depart form the Eastern Bus Terminal (Ekkamai) to the Pattaya Bus Station on North Pattaya Rd. daily at 05.00 hrs. and every 30 minutes until 23.00 hrs. One way fare: 117 baht. Reservation: Rung Ruang Tour Tel. 02-390-1230

Depart from the Northern Bus Terminal (Mo Chit) to the Pattaya Bus Station on North Pattaya Rd. daily at 04.00 hrs. and every 30 minutes until 22.00 hrs. One way fare: 124 Baht Reservation : Rung Ruang Tour Tel. 02-271-2962

Depart from the Bus Terminal (North Pattaya) to the Eastern Bus Terminal (Ekkamai) One way fare: 113 Baht and to the Northern Bus Terminal (Mo Chit) One way fare: 121 Baht. daily at 05.00 hrs. and every 30 minutes until 23.00 hrs. Reservation : Rung Ruang Tour Tel. 02-271-2962

Depart from the Bangkok Airport to Pattaya at 09.00, 12.00 and 19.00 hrs. One way fare: 180 Baht Reservation: Thai Airways, arrival lounge, Bangkok Airport Tel. 02-535-2801, 535-2803 Pattaya Tel. 038-423-140

Departure from any hotel in Bangkok to Pattaya daily at 09.00, 11.30, 14.30 hrs. One way fare is 200 baht. Reservation: bell Travel Tel: 02-747-4675-6
By 2nd Class Air Conditioned Bus and Regualar Bus (Unspecified)

Departure from the Eastern Bus Ternimal, Tel. 02-391-2504, Daily at 05.00 hrs. and every 30 minutes until 21.00 hrs. One way fare: 120 baht.

By Train

Few visitors to Pattaya are aware that the city does have a railway station. It is north of Sukhumvit Rd close to the Siam Country Club. One train a day leaves Bangkok Railway Station (Hualamphong) at 7am and takes 5 hours to works its way down to Pattaya. For more details call (66-2) 223-7010, 223-7020.

By Air

The vast majority of tourists going to Patttaya are unaware that the resort does have U-Tapo Airport at Sattahip. Currently the only scheduled flights are operated by Bangkok Airways to and from Koh Samui.

Beach

Jomtien Beach

Jomtien Beach this 6-kilometers long, largely straight beach, some 4 kilometers south of Pattaya, is the most notable of several beaches south of the resort. The beach is popular with windsurfs and waterspouts enthusiasts, largely because the area enjoys brisk and fresh breezes sweeping inland from the Thai Gulf, and because the seas are less congested with boats than is Pattaya Bay.

Jomtien is also a major residential area with beachside hotels, bunga low complexes, condominiums and restaurants.

Pattaya Beach

Pattaya Beach some 4 kilometers long, this beach faces Pattaya Bay, the major venue from where boats visit Pattaya's offshore islands. The beach curves from north to south and is largely paralleled by a tree-lined promenade and beach road, which is lined, in the northern and central parts, by hotels and restaurants.

The northern section of the beach is largely tranquil, while the central and southern parts become increasingly lively, thanks to a juxtaposition of shops, department stores, boutiques, beauty salons, supermarkets, bars, discotheques, restaurants and night clubs. The central area of the beach is a major shopping area, while the southern end is one of Pattaya's major nightlife areas.

Wong Prachan Beach

Won Prachan Beach is on the northern side of Pattaya Bay. The 1-kilometer beach shares the same entrance as the Central Wong Amat Hotel. A quiet spot, the beach is ideal for swimming and relaxation.

Island



Larn Island

Koh Larn situated to the West of Pattaya Strait, about 7.7 Kilometers from the shore, covering an area of about 4 square kilometers, popularly known as Coral Island and is 45 minutes by ferry or 20 minutes by speed boat from Pattaya Beach.

There are beautiful beaches, clear water, and an abundance of coral. Visitors can view the coral either from a glass-bottom boat or by diving down directly. A well-known beach is at Ta Waen Beach in the northern part of the Island, a 750 meters stretch of white sand with many stalls andshops. Sightseeing boats mostly dock in this area.

There are also Laemtien Beach and Samae Beach on the south-western side, each beach spanning a length of 700 and 100 meters respectively.Both are regarded as beautiful and interesting sports, especially Laemtien Beach which has remained exceptionally clean and tranquil. There are now a few stores servisitors. Ta Pan Beach on the western part of the island is 500 meters in length with make-shift lodging available.

On Saturdays, Sundays and holidays, sightseeing boats usually dock along this beach all the way to Laemtie where there is coral. On the southern part is Nual Beach 450 meters in length. On this beach a hotel which accommodates a large number of tourists. This is another good place for viewing coral.



Phai Group Island

Koh Phai Group of islands is comprised of Koh Phai, Koh Manvichai, Koh leom, Koh Klung Badan etc., Koh Phai being the largest. The islands are presently under the supervision of the Royal Navy. The Koh Phai groups of islands are situated at a distance about 13 kilometers from Pattaya and takes 2 hours to reach by boat. There is a lighthouse on top of a hill at Koh Phai. Visitor's can enjoy relaxing-moments, swimming, fishing and diving down to view the coral.

Krok Island

Koh Krok a small island covering an area of 0.05 square kilo -
meters, approximately 8 kilometers from the shore. The island comprises mostly rocks. Only one sandy-beach on the east of the island is Koh Krok beach which is only 100 meters in length. This is an ideal place for coral viewing.



Sak Island

Koh Sak some 10 kilometers west of Pattaya strait or 600 meters away from Koh Larn. Koh Sak is another Small Island shaped like a horseshoe with an area of 0.05 square kilometers. It has two beaches, one on the northern cover 250 meters in length, and area in which boats usually stop for tourists to swim and another one on the southern part of the island opposite the first island, with a pathway linking the two beaches, a small beach 80 meters in length. A coral is found at the area in front of the beach. Skin-diving is also possible in this vicinity.
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Chanthaburi



Famous for its abundance of tropical fruits and as a centre of gems, the eastern province of Chanthaburi is also blessed with rich, verdant forests with scenic waterfalls. The Chanthaburi River flows through the town which has been the home of ancient communities. Quiet fishing villages and peaceful beaches are not far from town.

Chanthaburi was occupied by the French during the early part of the 20th century. Their influence can be seen in the architecture of many buildings including the largest Catholic cathedral in Thailand, catering to a sizeable Christian population.

About 245 kilometres from Bangkok and covering an area of 6,338 square kilometers, Chanthaburi as administratively divided into the following districts:- Mueang Chanthaburi, Tha Mai, Khlung, Laem Sing, Pong Nam Ron, Makham, Soi Dao, Na Yai Am, Kang Hang Maeo and Khao Khitchakut sub-district.

How To Get There

Car

From Bangkok, take Highway No. 34 (Bang Na-Trat) or Motorway to Chonburi, then use Highway No. 344 (Ban Bung-Klaeng) and proceed to Chanthaburi along Highway No. 3.

Bus

Both air-conditioned and non air-conditioned buses depart from Eastern Bus Terminal (Ekkamai) to Chanthaburi every hour from 4 a.m.-midnight. For more information, contact Transport Co. Ltd at Tel: 0 2391 2504; Choet Chai Tour Tel: 0 2391 4146; Phonnipha Tour Tel: 0 2391 5179.

The Trok Nong Waterfall

There are two other waterfalls in the park. The Khlong Narai waterfal, about 6 kilometres from town via Highway No. 3 at a right turn at Km. 338-339 and two kilometres further away on foot. The Trok Nong waterfall is off Highway No. 3277 (Khlung-Makham route) with a left turn at Trok Nong market and a further 2 kilometres on foot.

Chantaburi Horticultural Research Centre

Located at Tambon Phliu, about 15 kilometres from the city. In its large area are various plantations such as durian, mango steen, rambutan and a variety of herbs and spices. The centre is opened for group visitors (more than 10 people). Advanced contact is necessary at Tel: 0 3939 7030.

Hat Laem Sing

Laem Sing is about 30 kilometres from town and can be reached via Sukhumvit Road on the way to Trat with a right turn at Km. 347, a further distance of 16 kilometres to the beach. The beach itself is shaded with pine trees lining the entire shore and cooled by constant gentle breezes. There are food shops and boats for rent to visit two nearby isles, Ko Chula and Ko Nom Sao. The trip takes 30 minutes and one hour respectively.

Hat Laem Sing

Laem Sing is about 30 kilometres from town and can be reached via Sukhumvit Road on the way to Trat with a right turn at Km. 347, a further distance of 16 kilometres to the beach. The beach itself is shaded with pine trees lining the entire shore and cooled by constant gentle breezes. There are food shops and boats for rent to visit two nearby isles, Ko Chula and Ko Nom Sao. The trip takes 30 minutes and one hour respectively.

Khuk Khi Kai

The notorious Khuk Khi Kai, just before Laem Sing beach, was built to hold Thais who were against the French occupation of Chanthaburi in 1893. A 7-metre high, square-shaped prison, it was built in bricks with each side measuring 4.40 metres. The walls were holed for ventilation. The porous roof is said to have been used as chicken coop through which the birds dropped their excrements.

Namtok Phliu National Park

A left turn at Km. 346 on Highway No. 3 is the Namtok Phliu National Park, covering an area of 134.5 square kilometres along forestland at Khao Sa Bap mountain range. The 3-level Phliu waterfall features a basin of cool, clear water for splashing around and plenty of fish make the flowing streams their home. Nearby are a small Chedi and a pyramid built by King Rama V as a loving memorial to Phra Nang Chao Sunanthakumarirat, his first consort, who died in a boat accident.

There are two other waterfalls in the park. The Khlong Narai waterfal, about 6 kilometres from town via Highway No. 3 at a right turn at Km. 338-339 and two kilometres further away on foot. The Trok Nong waterfal is off Highway No. 3277 (Khlung-Makham route) with a left turn at Trok Nong market and a further 2 kilometres on foot.
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Trat



Trat is Thailand's eastern-most province, located about 315 kilometers from Bangkok. This small province borders on Cambodia with the Khao Banthat mountain range forming a natural demarcation. With 52 large and small offshore islands, long white sandy beaches and unspoiled coral reefs, Trat offers delightful scenery and a tranquil hideout for nature-lovers. The province also serves as a major fruit-growing and fishing area.

The city of Trat is a starting point for Ko Chang island group or forays into outlying gem and Cambodian markets. Those enthralled by shopping will be delighted as Trat has more markets for its size than almost any other town in Thailand due to Cambodian coastal trade.
Like Chanthaburi, Trat is a very important ruby-mining province, with the most famous gem market located in Bo Rai District, some 50 kilometers north of the Cambodian border.

With an area of 2,819 square kilometers, the province is administratively divided into the districts of Muang, Khao Saming, Laem Ngop, Khlong Yai and Bo Rai, and the sub-districts of Ko Chang and Ko Kut.

The weather in and around Trat is very comfortable with warm temperatures throughout the year. The region is influenced by the northeastern and southwestern winds, which sometimes limit sea transport to a group of islands particularly from May to October when the southwest monsoon blows. During this period the western coast can be wet and stormy and occasionally unsafe for ferries and smaller boats to lift anchor. However, visitors can still visit the islands via the normally more popular routes, most of which are to the northeast of Ko Chang, anyway.



The Past

The history of Trat can be traced back to the reign of King Prasat Thong of the Kingdom of Ayutthaya. Formerly known as Muang Thung Yai, Trat has played an important role in the development of country's stability and economy due to its strategic location. The town of Trat has later become a community of Chinese Merchants.

Trat served as a checkpoint and buffer city in 1767 and was responsible for providing provisions to King Taksin the Great before he moved his navy from Chanthaburi to Ayutthaya, where he expelled the Burmese and liberated the Kingdom from Burmese rule.

In the Ratanakosin period, during the reign of King Rama V, Trat played an important role again in stabilizing the country's sovereignty. King Rama V made an agreement with the French government (who had also taken Chanthaburi under its supervision) to get Trat back. In doing this, Phra Tabong, Siamrat and Sri Sophon were traded off.
During the Indochina War, the French Navy tried to seize Trat again. The French Thai Battle broke out on 17 January 1941 at Ko Chang. The Thai Navy successfully drove out the French Navy.


How to Get There

By Car

From Bangkok, take Highway No. 34 (Bang Na-Trat) or Motorway to Chonburi, then use Highway No. 344 (Ban Bung-Klaeng) Arriving at Klaeng, turn onto Highway No. 3 and proceed to Trat. The total distance from Bangkok to Trat is 318 kilometers.

By Bus

Both air-conditioned and non air-conditioned buses depart from Bangkok's Eastern Bus Terminal (Ekamai) to Trat every hour from 6 a.m. to midnight. From Bangkok the buses to Trat cost 169 baht for 1st class air-conditioned buses (132 baht for 2nd class) and 197 baht for 24-seat VIP air-conditioned buses or 113 baht for regular buses. The trip takes five to six hours by air-conditioned bus or about eight hours by regular bus.

For more information, contact Transport Co. Ltd at Tel: 0-2391 -4164, Choet Chai Tour Tel: 0-2391-2237, Chok Anukun Tour Tel: 0-2392-7680 and Suppharat Tour Tel: 0-2391-2331.

Several non air-conditioned buses leave daily, starting from 07.00a.m.-11.00p.m. Fare is 78B (Tel.02 391-2504). Air-conditioned buses leave every 1.30 hours, starting from 07.00a.m.-11.00p.m.. Fare is 140B (Tel. 02 391-4164).

From Chanthaburi to Trat, the regular bus takes about 30 minutes. If one goes by taxi from Chanthaburi to Trat, it takes around 45 minutes.

Travelling around Trat

Car rent in Muang District

Suppharat Opposite to Choet Chai Tour, Sukhumvit Road, Tel: 0-3931-2011, 0-3951-2236

Getting around the city

Sam lors around town should cost about 10 baht per person. Small song taews cost about 5 baht per person on a share basis or 20 baht to 40 baht for the whole vehicle.

Getting to Islands

Ferries depart either from Ao Thammachat Pier, or Ko Chang Centre Point Landings between 07.30 a.m. - 4.30 p.m., with a travel time of 30 minutes. Private vehicles can be loaded onto the ferry. Please note that vehicles used on the island should be 4 wheel drive vehicles as road conditions are bumpy and there are steep slopes to be negotiated. From the landing on Ko Chang there are song taew services to various points. Fares should be settled beforehand.

Ban Hat Lek

Ban Hat Lek is the farthest border village in Trat. It is on Highway No. 318 within Khlong Yai District about 16 kilometers from the district town, or approximately 89 kilometers from the provincial capital. After the conflict ended in Cambodia, it has become a channel for Thai-Cambodia trading. There is an immigration check point at the border. Visitors wishing to enter Cambodia from here have to apply for visa at the Cambodian Embassy in advance. Along Highway No. 318 (Trat-Khlong Yai) are several white clean beaches and other attractions including:

Hat Ban Chuen

This quiet beach is at Km. 59 of Highway No. 318 (Trat-Khlong Yai).
Accommodations are available.

Khao Lan Thai Red Cross Centre

The Khao Lan Thai Red Cross Centre on Trat-Khlong Yai Highway at Km. 48 was formerly a facility to assist Cambodian refugees who fled the fighting in their country into Thailand from 1978 until peace was restored in 1986. After the refugees were repatriated, the centre was closed. Today, the site has been adapted into a tourist facility. Tel: 0 3952 1621.

Wat Saen Tum

This temple is a Dharma-practicing facility amid the cool shade of forests and fruit orchards. To the south of the temple is what is called the Khao To Mo Ancient Site where piles of stone pillars have been discovered. It is believed that they were components of ancient Khmer structures. In addition, a large number of relics such as pottery and ornaments and beads were found at the site.

Wat Saen Tum can be reached by taking the Saen Tung-Bo Rai route. At Km. 18.5, take a left turn to head for Ban Tha Lai, Ban Na Makham and Ban Erem where the temple is situated. The temple is about 38 kilometers from Khao Saming district.



Ko Chang

A stretch of long white sandy beach dotted with coconut tree orchards is a common sight on Ko Chang the largest and busiest island in Trat and the second largest island in the country after Phuket.

Covering an area of 429 square kilometers, Ko Chang, boasts several amazing natural wonders that blend magnificently with the traditional way of life such as 70 percent undisturbed island rainforest, steep hills, cliffs, waterfalls, and notable wildlife, fine beaches, coral reefs and an abundance of marine life. In addition, numerous fruit orchards dot the island.

Most of the scenic beaches and bays are on the west side spreading from the north to the south they include Ao Khlong Son , Hat Sai Khao , Hat Khlong Phrao and Hat Kai Bae. A road cuts through the western shore almost reaching Hat Kai Bae where there is a nature trail passing through Ao Bai Lan and Ao Kruat and meandering through wet forestland to Ban Bang Bao, a fishing community on the foot of the hill in the south.

To the east are Ao Sapparot, where a ferry landing is situated and Ao Salak Khok. In addition, along the eastern shoreline is a road cutting through to Ao Salak Phet, a community with a boat pier to the south of the island. Coral ranges worth visiting are at Ao Khlong Son near Ko Chang Noi and around islands south of Ko Chang.

In addition to sea-based attractions Ko Chang has numerous inland attractions including several waterfalls with reasonable access. They are the Khlong Phlu waterfall, 3 kilometers from Ao Khlong Phrao and a further 20 minutes on foot; Khlong Nonsi waterfall, a 4-kilometre walk from park headquarters; and Khiriphet and Khlong Nung falls, which are about 3 kilometers from Ban Salak Phet.
As well as the obvious activities Ko Chang offers many other attractions including waterfalls, temples, the National Park and Museum or the beautiful scenic lookout points, which are all worth a visit. Divers will find fascinating diving areas off of the shores of Ko Chang and the surrounding islands. Besides the many coral reefs, sunken warships, a reminder of times past, can be visited in the Salak Phet Bay.

The Ko Chang National Park occupies an area of 650 square kilometers and is comprised of 47 islets, which spread from Laem Ngob to Klong Yai Districts. . The most popular islands includes Ko Chang, Ko Klum, Ko Ngam, Ko Lao Ya and Ko Rung where natural wonders await travelers. The most popular season for traveling to the National Park is from November to March. The park headquarters are divided into 4 units namely Tha Than Mayom, Ban Khlong Son, Tha Khlong Plu and Ban Salak which provide useful tourist information. At any one of the headquarters, an entry fee of 200baht is collected.

For transportation to Ko Chang, please refer to the traveling to Ko Chang section.

Wat Bang Bao is on the roadside, next to the turn-off to Ban Bang Bao.

Wat Khlong Prao is located in Baan Khlong Prao, also right off the main road.

Wat Khlong Son is approximately 500 metres from the intersection in Ban Khlong Son, in the direction of the bay.
At the top of the hill after Sapparot Bay towards Ban Khlong Son there is a Chinese temple.

Wat Khlong Nonsi is situated just before the Dan-May Pier in Baan Khlong Nonsi. Turn towards the sea at the intersection on the main road. Proper clothes should be worn during temple visits.

Ko Chang Naval Battle Area

This area is located to the south of Ko Chang close to Salak Petch Bay. It is the area where the battle between the Thai and French Naval forces was fought over the eastern border conflict. The Thai Navy holds an annual event to commemorate the combat victory and make merit for the dead naval forces on 17 January.

Namtok Than Mayom

A 3-tiered medium-sized waterfall located behind the parks office. There is a trail situated 500 meters from a durian orchard that leads to the site where King Rama V and VI had visited and signed their royal names on the highest cliff of the cascade.

Namtok Kiri Phet

Located to the south of Ko Chang, approximately 3 kilometers from Ban Salak Petch.

Namtok Khlong Nonsi

This is a little waterfall in the northeast zone of the island. The path to the area lies 3 kilometers from Baan Daan Mai or 3 kilometers from the national park office.

Namtok Khlong Nueng

This is a small 120 meter high waterfall situated in a remote area from Salak Petch Community near Salak Petch Waterfall is an ideal place for relaxation.

Ban Salak Petch and Ban Rong Than

These are the largest fishing villages on the island and are ideal venues for visitors wishing to experience or observe their lifestyle. Bungalows and food shops are available.

Bang Bao Fishing Village

Another ideal spot to learn more about the lifestyle of fishermen where residents build up their houses with poles pitched into the sea and the community is linked together via a bridge that reaches every house. In addition, Bang Bao is one of the zones rich in corals.

Hat Sai Khao (White Sand Beach)

One of the longest beaches on Ko Chang, this beach provides the most magnificent seascape. The beach, which is 2 kilometers long, is dotted with reasonably priced bungalows and resorts. Embracing the beach to the rear are orchards of coconut trees and forests.

Khlong Son Bay

Rich in coral lines, the bay is located on the western coast of Ko Chang where Klong Son Community is situated.

Namtok Khlong Plu

A large 3-tiered waterfall situated 3 kilometers or a walking distance of approximately 20 minutes away from Khlong Prao Bay that is a rewarding experience.

Tri Petch Waterfall

This single level waterfall is situated 3 kilometers from Salak Petch Community along an orchard of rubber trees.

Hat Khlong Phrao and Laem Chat Chet

Laem Chai Chet is along the sea adjacent to Kai Bae Beach, which is rather steep but offers possibilities for swimming. Standard bungalows with facilities are available. The northernmost area of Klong Phrao Beach is adjacent to Chai Chet Bay and Beach where visitors can take in the beautiful landscape while enjoying the superb relaxation and tranquil retreat.

Kai Bae Beach

This beach is close to Khlong Phrao Beach and is similar to Khlong Phrao in that the beach is steep but safe for swimming with quite a few inexpensively priced bungalows in the area.

Ao Bai Lan

This small bay with its long sandy beach where visitors can enjoy the spectacular view in serene ambience is situated close to Kai Bae beach.

Hat Khlong Kloi

This shady beach with coconut trees located next to Bang Bao Village is a perfect place for relaxation.

Activities in Ko Chang

The main thing to do when in Ko Chang is to relax. Other than that, there are numerous activities for visitors such as fishing, snorkeling and visiting nearby islands. In addition, many resorts rent out kayaks and arrange jungle treks as well as provide all day boat tours to the nearby islands. Moreover, scooters can be rented in most places, which make the island easier to explore independently, however the driver should have some two-wheel experience as the roads have a tendency to fade away to nothing more than tracks.

Furthermore, there are diving schools at all of the 4 largest beaches on the west coast, where tours can be booked or various diving licenses can be obtained and sailing-tours can also be booked in many resorts and travel agencies.

Accommodations on Ko Chang

There are many resorts and bungalows on Ko Chang thus visitors purchasing boat/ferry tickets from any of the piers should inform the staff of the desired beach and resort accommodations reserved to prevent misunderstandings on the destination. Facilities on Ko Chang include mainly bungalow-type accommodations on most beaches which generally rent out bicycles and boats. Budget and high-end accommodations are also available with prices ranging from 100 baht (bungalow) to 6,500 baht for superior/deluxe rooms in boutique hotels and internationally accredited resorts.

Best time to visit Ko Chang and other islands

The season is from October to May as from mid May to mid October most of the resorts are closed, but visitors will still be able to find a few open, as some of the owners actually live there and are open all year round.

Dining delights in Ko Chang

Ko Chang is still virtually an untouched gastronomic paradise as the islanders have made a living fishing in the beautiful blue seas for centuries. There are plenty of seafood restaurants dotted around the island and with the recent addition of a number of resorts, visitors can now enjoy a wide range of local and international cuisines.

As the island only has a single road and most restaurants are located on the road or in resort compounds, they are easy to find. It just takes a little looking around to find a place that suits your fancy. Reservations are not normally required but if you want to dine further up the scale it is best to book in advance.

Getting to Ko Chang

A 5 hours bus trip from the Eastern Bus Terminal will take visitors to the Trat Bus Terminal (departures between 06.00 a.m. until 12.00 p.m.). From there continue by song taew transport to Laem Ngop, which is 17 kilometers from town, or the ferry landings at Ao Thammachat and Ko Chang Centre Point where services are operated all day.

Passenger boats usually leave from Laem Ngop to Ao Sapparot on Ko Chang every hour from 8.00 a.m. until 5.00 p.m. The trip takes 45 minutes and the fare is 50 baht per person. Visitors can continue to Hat Sai Khao, Hat Khlong Phrao and Hat Kai Bae by local bus which charges 30 baht per person. The schedules and fares are subject to change without notice due to climate condition. For current information, please contact TAT Trat office, Tel: Tel: 0-3959-7255, 0-3959-7259-60 Fax: 0-3959-7255.

Ferry Services

Ferries depart either from Ao Thammachat or Ko Chang Center Point Landings between 7.30 a.m. and 4.30 p.m. with a traveling time of 30 minutes. Private vehicles can be loaded onto the ferry. Please note that vehicles used on the island should be the 4-wheel drive types as road conditions are bumpy and there are steep slopes to be negotiated. From the landing on Ko Chang are song taew services to various points. Fares should be settled beforehand.

Naval Battle Monument Pier (Krom Luang Pier)

Wooden boats depart every hour from 9.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m. The passenger fare for a round trip costs approximately 100 baht. Call tel. 039 538 084 for more details.

Center Point Pier

Ferries leave hourly from 6.00 a.m. until 7.00p.m. Call 039 538196 for more information.

Rates for round trip:

4-wheel vehicles, 60 baht/passenger
6-wheel vehicles, 250 baht, no charge for driver and one passenger
10-wheel vehicles, 500 baht, no charge for driver and one passenger

Ao Thammachat Pier

Ferries leave every hour from 6.30 a.m. to 7.15 p.m. Contact 039 528288-9 for more details.

Rates for round trip:

4-wheel vehicle, 60 baht/passenger, no charge for driver
6-wheel vehicle, 500 baht, no charge for driver but 60 baht fee is applied for any passenger
10-wheel vehicle, 1,000 baht, no charge for driver and one passenger

Ko Chang Ferry

Ferries depart every 45 minutes from 6.30 a.m. until 7.15 p.m. For more information call tel. 039 597143.

Rates for round trip:

4-wheel vehicle 150 baht, no charge for driver, but a fee of 60 baht/passenger is applied
6-wheel vehicle, 500 baht, no charge for driver but 60 baht fee is applied for any passenger
10-wheel vehicle, 1,000 baht, no charge for driver and one passenger
For visitors planning to stay at Ko Wai there is a ferry service from Laem Ngob to Ko Wai at around 3:00 p.m. with a fare of 120 baht/person/one way.
For visitors planning to stay at Ko Kham there is a ferry service from Laem Ngob to Ko Kham at around 3:00 p.m. with a fare of 170 baht/person/one way.
For visitors planning to stay at Ko Mak there is a ferry service from Laem Ngob to Ko Mak at around 3:00 p.m. with a fare of 150 baht/person/one way.
Facilities on Ko Chang include mainly bungalow-type accommodations on most beaches and rental services for bicycles and boats.
Several smaller isles south of Ko Chang include Ko Wai, Ko Lao Ya and Ko Kradat. Noted for both deep-water and shallow-water corals are the Ko Kra group and Ko Rang which are to the west of Ko Mak.
Travel to other Islands
Most visitors come to Amphoe Laem Ngob where there are 2 piers namely Laem Ngob and Ko Chang Centre Point, offering daily boat services to islands such as Ko Mak, Ko Wai, and Ko Kham. Tourist spots in Ko Chang and other groups of islands.

Ko Chang Noi

Ko Chang Noi and Laem Chang Noi lie to the north of Ko Chang. The sea between Ko Chang Noi and Laem Chang Noi is abundant with corals.

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Mirror Beach


Mirror beach or in local language Pantai Cermin is located in Serdang Bedagai Regency.
It's a nice place to swim, sun bathing and fishing. It's one of eastern beaches in Indonesia. Unlike the western beaches, Mirror beach has a calm wave so it's not an appropriate place to surf. The local government has developed the beach to contribute another good object tourism of North Sumatera. The sand of the beach is white like a glass, therefore they called the beach by the name "cermin" means Mirror.
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Pond Inlet Residents - Have Your Say!

Some of you might remember that I have been visiting Pond Inlet for the last two years. I am working on an independent research project, for my PhD in Geography at the University of Calgary, looking at resident attitudes to tourism here, as well as Churchill and Cambridge Bay.The reason for setting up this weblog is to give as many people as possible a chance to comment on my findings. I'll be in town from the 27th August – 1st September 2007, so I hope to talk to as many people as possible, but obviously I cannot speak to everyone, so this is your chance to look at the results, and to have your say!

I have posted below some of my selected findings. If you'd like to make a comment, to agree or disagree, simply add your thoughts by clicking on the 'comments' button at the end of each posting. If you prefer that your postings are anonymous simply select that option. If you'd like to contact me privately, please email me at ejstewar@ucalgary.ca. I'd also be keen to hear how you think this information can be best used in the community so that tourism in Pond Inlet continues to flourish. So send me your ideas! I welcome comments from visitors too, but please indicate that you are a tourist in the comment box. Thank you very much for your time and for contributing to the project!
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The Good Things about Tourism

When I asked residents (71 of you) to tell me about the positive effects of tourism in Pond Inlet, the following things were mentioned (and I have grouped them under economic, social, cultural and environmental categories):
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i) Economic Benefits

* Tourism generates income for the community (19 people said that).
* Tourism is beneficial to local carvers and tourism is helping rekindle the craft industry (7 people said that)
* Tourism creates good jobs for local people (4 people identified that) and an additional 7 people noted that tourism creates job opportunities for local guides.
* Tourism provides a good source of supplementary income (5 people recognized that).
* Tourists buy produce and products from Pond Inlet (5 people thought that) and another 3 people said specifically that tourists buy local carvings.
* Tourism helps young people get out on the land to hunt (4 residents said that) and an additional 3 people noted that tourism allows residents to own hunting and camping equipment.
* Other people said sports hunters bring in big dollars to the community (1 person), pay for the guide’s gas and food (1 person) and sometimes sports hunters will send out care packages at Christmas time (1 person). Other comments included: tourism provides good opportunities for people with boats, dog teams and/or skidoos (1 person) and tourism helps local people develop new skills (1 person). One person suggested that Pond Inlet had “done very well from tourism without doing much as a community”. Another resident said that the money generated from tourism is re-spent in the local shops. And finally one person thought that tourism has the potential to add a lot more money to the Pond Inlet economy.
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ii) Social Benefits

* Tourism is a good way to meet new people (11 people said that) and tourism is fun, exciting and its enjoyable to take part in activities alongside the tourists (7 people felt that).
* Tourism gives the community recognition as a good place to visit (6 people thought that) and that this ‘recognition’ makes residents feel proud (1 person) and particularly proud of local guides (1 person).
* Tourism facilitates communication between Inuit and Qallunaat (white people) (6 people identified that). Communication is enhanced when tourists and locals interact (6 people said they had experienced that) and friendships can develop between residents and tourists (4 people recognized that).
* Tourism is an opportunity to educate visitors and to dispel myths about living in the north (8 residents noted that) as well as tourism being a vehicle to showcase Inuit culture and land (6 people thought that).
* Other people noted that: it is good to see tourists enjoying themselves (2 people); it is good for local people to see the cruise ships (1 person); that some tourism jobs allow families to work together (1 person) and that the visitor centre also is used by the community (1 person).
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iii) Cultural Benefits:

* Sports hunters leave some of the meat from their hunts with local people (3 people said that).
* Tourism gives local people an opportunity to participate in cultural demonstrations (4 people thought that).
* Tourism provides lots of opportunities for young Inuit people (1 person).
* The cultural shows interpret the “traditions of our ancestors and keep these traditions alive” (1 person).
* Local people talk more about ‘IQ’ (Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit - Inuit way of interpreting the world) because tourists ask questions (1 person).
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iv) Environmental Benefits

Only 4 people mentioned environmental benefits arising from tourism, and these included: the Hamlet is cleaned up because of tourism; Pond Inlet is a pleasant place to be and “so long as tourism doesn’t affect our land its okay to have tourists here”; and tourism gives us an opportunity to spend time out on the land.
HAVE YOUR SAY.....! So most people talked about the economic and socio-cultural advantages that tourism brings to Pond Inlet, do you agree with this? Would you add other advantages to this list? If you'd like to make a comment (even if its, yes I agree with what has already been said) please click on the comments button below.
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The Not-So-Good Things about Tourism

On the negative side, of the 71 residents I spoke to, 52 per cent of them didn't think there were any bad things about tourism in Pond Inlet. Of the remaining people, their comments were:
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i) Economic Concerns

Individuals mentioned that tourism only provides seasonal work which is not well paid, and that tourism benefits only a few people and organizations in the community (and that this may lead to jealously). As one person put it “tourism feeds some carvers but not everyone”. That costs go up in the tourist season, that local services aren’t ulitized by tourists and that “tourists don’t spend much but only take things” were economic concerns raised by other residents.
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ii) Social Concerns

* Two people mentioned that guiding obligations conflicted with their own family time on the land, and one other person said that Pond Inlet gets at least one ‘surprise’ cruise ship a year, which is disruptive.
* Tourism was thought by 2 people to “turn our kids into beggars” and similarly, two residents said that the behaviour of children around tourists was “embarrassing”.
* One person noticed that the line-ups in the store are longer when tourists are in town, but it was added that this is only a minor inconvenience.
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iii) Cultural Concerns

* Two residents observed that tourists were “suspicious of us” and “they don’t trust us”.
* Two people thought tourists were “sometimes snobby or asked dumb questions”.
* Other individuals noted that:
- They had concerns because traditions were used as “show-time” for tourists;
- Tourists don’t always ask permission before they take photographs (and one person was upset because tourists don’t ask before taking pictures of children in amauti – Inuit baby carrier);
- Tourists are not culturally aware;
- Tourists misunderstand Inuit hunting culture;
- Tourism will bring cultural change;
- Some tourists don’t seem very interested in Inuit life and have no sense of what it is really like to live in the north;
- Communication can be a problem with some outfitters and tourists;
- And some tourists “stand in judgement of Inuit people”.
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iv) Environmental Concerns

Only 7 people mentioned environmental concerns arising from tourism, and these included: two residents noted that they didn’t like tourists seeing the Hamlet when it “was messy” or when tourists took photographs of “the mess”; two people said tourists leave garbage and pollute the land; one person thought tourists “take things from the land”; one person said tourists “trample on archaeological sites” and; one person thought tourists “might bring diseases from the south”.

HAVE YOUR SAY......! Again, please add a comment, if you have anything to add, or simply whether you agree with these results.
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Overall Attitude to Tourism in Pond Inlet

When I asked residents to indicate on a scale their overall attitude to tourism in Pond Inlet, 55% said they were supportive, 25% said they were somewhat supportive, 14% said they were neutral in their opinion, and 4% said they were either unsupportive or somewhat unsupportive of tourism (2% of residents did not answer the question). Are you surprised by these results? If you have comments on these or other aspects of these findings, please leave your comments by clicking on the button below.
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Mapping Exercise: Current Tourism Activities

When I interviewed residents of Pond Inlet I asked them to look at this satellite image of the area, and to tell me places where current tourism activities are appropriate and places where tourism activities aren't appropriate. I then asked them to repeat this exercise for future tourism activities. Here's the same satellite image with comments and annotations (to make the image larger simply click on the satellite image). What do you think? Do you agree with these results?

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Medan Grand Mosque





Beside the Maimoon Palace, The Medan Grand Mosque was another architectural heritage of Deli Sultanate. the mosque is still utilized by the local community for daily prayers. Like The Maimoon Palace, the building materials of the mosque were taken from Italy. The Grand Mosque which was built in 1906 by Sultan Makmun Al-Rasyid is the most beautiful and magnificence mosques in North Sumatera. It is situated about 200 m from The Maimoon Palace.


The specific architecture of the mosque was inspired by the Moorish style.The dome of the Al Ma'sum Mosque that had flat and quadrangle shape also in the peak of the roof has the usual crescent moon decoration was also found in other Islamic buildings like the Mosque and the tower that according to the experts often were connected as the symbol of peacefulness, where Islam was broadcasted without violence.


Apart from the plan, dome, curves (arcade), the crescent moon decoration on its peak, the influence of Islamic art is clearly visible in its Ornamentation, whether on the wall, the ceiling, the poles, and the curved surface (face Arcade) that was rich in the decoration of flowers and winding plants painted with oil paint. This floralistic decoration apart from being styled reminds to the Tumpal and mekara motive, also painted with Naturalistic style. Except the floral motive and geometric motive, the combination between Polygonal, Octagonal and circle decorations was also appealing. The motive of this kind especially very much found in walls, the curved surface, the ceiling etc. This motive was also found in the iron curtain form of the quadrangle windows and the shape of the curve that reminded us to motive the Indian style wall carving. In Indonesia, this kind of decoration was often acknowledged as the Terawangan or Kerawangan decoration,apart as being a decoration, this decoration also unction as ventilation.
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